Country Dance & Song Society Inc

The Country Dance & Song Society Inc (CDSS) is a U.S. nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting participatory dance, music, and song rooted in English and North American culture. Founded from groups established during Cecil J. Sharp's teaching tour in the United States, CDSS has evolved into one of the oldest folk organizations in the country.

Mission and Activities

CDSS aims to connect and support people in building vibrant communities through participatory dance and music. It stewards the living traditions of English country dance, contra and square dance, morris and sword dance, and the music integral to these traditions. The organization is passionate about the joy and strength dance, music, and song bring to individuals and communities, advocating for their vitality and sustainability.

Structure and Networking

CDSS is a network of over 3,000 members and 260 affiliates across 56 states and provinces in the United States and 11 countries worldwide. It offers educational, artistic, and organizational support to participants. CDSS also fosters community engagement by promoting dance, music, and social activities that bring people together.

Historical and Cultural Impact

Over its long history, CDSS has contributed significantly to the preservation and evolution of traditional dance and music. It has sold over 50,000 morris bells, bestowed 34 Lifetime Contribution Awards, and published extensive hours of podcasts. The organization continues to host camps, provide grants to local communities, and develop resources for callers and organizers.

Programs and Initiatives

Recent initiatives include the development of a Community Culture & Safety Toolkit to help organizers ensure safety and community values in dance events. Additionally, CDSS supports research through funds like the Anthony Barrand Research & Stewardship Fund, which assists the next generation of song and dance researchers.

CDSS is not affiliated with the website "overthewater.org" as its official website is not mentioned in provided sources. However, the organization is widely recognized for its role in promoting folk traditions across the U.S. and beyond.